Friend of ‘Virgin River’ actor confused by homicide investigation: ‘Everybody loved him’
‘Virgin River’ actor Stewart McLean was reported missing on on May 18 (RCMP)
Stewart McLean, an actor known for his role in “Virgin River,” was found dead in British Columbia on Friday, May 22, with his death currently being investigated as a homicide by Canada’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).
McLean, 45, was last seen at his home in Lions Bay, British Columbia, prior to May 15, prompting a missing person report to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on May 18, before the case was transferred to IHIT on May 20.
Jeff Seymour, McLean’s friend and acting coach, expressed deep concern when McLean missed filming, describing him as “meticulous” and a “straight arrow,” and stating that it “doesn’t make any sense” how anyone could have gotten the drop on him.
“Everybody loved this guy, it wasn’t like he was in nefarious activities or, you know, kind of ran with another crowd,” continued Seymour. “I mean, he was a bit of a loner. He spent a lot of time reading and being at his home out there in Squamish.”
IHIT is actively collecting and analyzing evidence, reviewing CCTV footage, and conducting interviews to establish a timeline of McLean’s activities prior to his disappearance, aiming to provide answers to his family and friends. Police are urging anyone with information regarding McLean’s death to contact the IHIT information line, as the actor, also credited as Stew McLean, had a decade-long career with roles in shows like “Arrow” and “Supernatural.”
